Back to school

Chances are that years after you've finished school, your brain has become a bit, shall we say, rusty.

Elissa Englund

Chances are that years after you've finished school, your brain has become a bit, shall we say, rusty.

Sure, you're an ace at your job, but how many engineers have to write a verse in iambic pentameter? How often does a graphic designer need to calculate probability? When was the last time anyone pondered what happens when a train leaves Detroit at 60 miles per hour?

Or needed to recite the Gettysburg Address?

Or was asked to define irony?

Our adult jobs focus on a specific set of skills, and we often forget the wide range of subjects we once learned in our years of education.

But those skills still linger in that rusty brain of yours. They just need a little bit of oil.

Consider this the Times Herald-Record's version of WD-40.

Inside, you'll find a full class schedule, adult-style. Here's your chance to brush up on your math skills, to learn how to write that best-selling novel or to rediscover art skills you haven't seen since kindergarten. And if you've always wanted to learn karate, a new language or how to fix your car, it's time to enroll.

And best of all, you won't have to worry about finding a prom date.

It’s time to revisit your favorite – and most dreaded – subjects and have a little fun.

This list has a lot of options from local colleges, businesses and studios, but there’s more out there. If you don’t see the perfect class here, check the Web site or call and see what other classes are offered. But just a note – you have to preregister for most of these classes.

Although you might not embark on a new career path, you’re guaranteed to uncover a hobby, relearn old tricks and meet some interesting people.

So grab your new instrument, put a pen behind your ear and sling your birdwatching binoculars around your neck. The bell’s about to ring, and you don’t want to miss homeroom.

MusicLearn guitar, bass, drums, DJ, flute, saxophone, clarinet, or banjo.WHERE: Alto Music180 Carpenter Ave., MiddletownCONTACT: 692-6922WHEN: Set up private lessons with one of the four instructors at the store.COST: Depends on skill level; usually around $20ON THE WEB: www.altomusic.com

Book writingBest-selling author Ginie Sayles will teach you how to write a book in three weeks.WHERE: SUNY Ulster1 Development Court, KingstonCONTACT: 339-2025WHEN: Oct. 10, 6:30-9:30 p.m.COST: $49ON THE WEB: sunyulster.edu/continuing_ed